"I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life." (1 Tim 2:1)
Many years ago when I was newly arrived in the Diocese of Norwich, Ct., I received a lovely letter from the local bishop, Michael Coty, D.D. Not only did he give me faculties to function as a priest in the Diocese, he welcomed me and assured me he was happy to have me living in the Diocese and was sure I would add something to the life of the local church.
Many of the parishes where I have helped over the years never forgot their duty to be Good News, and went out of their way each week to greet new parishioners, often inviting them for coffee after mass. At one parish in particular there was a staff of ushers, called ministers of hospitality, who lived up to their title. They were wonderful men and women who never failed to greet each parishioner with a smile. One usher who I admired the most knew everyone’s name and greeted each person as they entered, sometimes with a gentle word of encouragement. Carl would say, with a kind smile, “Haven’t seen you in while, and I'm glad to see you again.” His greetings sometimes prompted a response about sickness in the family or a long business trip, but usually resulted in the person simply saying thank you for missing me, no further explanation needed.
Today, say a prayer for your pastor and all those who offer leadership in your parish.
Who do you most admire for their willingness to go out of their way to welcome others to a Gospel way of life?
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please be discreet in your comments. I will monitor the comments, and only exclude those that are patently offensive.